07 - 13 - 2010 Loitering & disturbances prompt council to remove benches
(LS) The picnic benches placed around Monument Square to improve the townscape have brought nothing but trouble for some downtown Lewistown businesses. Loiters have taken over the areas, bringing pillows & blankets to remain there for hours–some even sleeping–into the evening. This has led to numerous complaint of vandalism & disturbances to businesses near the benches. Last night the borough council voted to request Mifflin Co. to remove the benches since the problems have not diminished. Security cameras were to have been placed around the benches to monitor loiters but so far that has not happened. Mayor Bargo lamented over removing the benches saying, “I don’t understand why other towns can have this, but we can’t”.